Africa-Press – Eswatini. Emaswati presented gifts worth over E13 million as they showed love for Their Majesties towards this year’s reed dance and the hosting of the 55/55 Double Celebrations.
The gifts, which were in cash, cattle and groceries were presented to Their Majesties ahead of the 55/55 Double Celebrations as the country marks 55 years of independence and His Majesty’s 55th birthday, at Mandvulo Grand Hall, at Lozitha on Thursday night.
Gifts were also towards the success of the reed dance, which was hosted by Tibiyo TakaNgwane, which also provided catering for libutfo for the duration of the reed dance.
Over 350 cattle were presented on the night as many Emaswati including politicians, businesspeople and the private sector responded to the call to donate towards the hosting of these events.
His Majesty first received gifts from individuals in the form of food, blankets and cushions, traditional wood crafted dishes, handicraft, cattle, goats, chickens, cash and more as they each greeted the King briefly and presented.
Emaswati who filled the hall were cheerful during the presentation as there was laughter, whistles and praises from different individuals other than the known praise singers.
Chiefs, traditional leaders, members of the Royal family, members of the different advisory councils, different company representatives, the business sector, individuals and more attended.
Resource Mobilisation Committee Chairperson, Wandile Mtshali, who is MTN Eswatini Chief Executive Officer, stated that they worked with the companies, parastatals, ambassadors, government and individuals during the exercise.
He reported that they received cash worth over E10.5 million and over 270 cattle towards the 55/55 Double Celebrations while Ludzidzini Advisory Council member, Ncumbi Maziya, announced that contributions towards the reed dance, totalled E2 487 388 in kind, cash and 75 cattle.
The different contributors under the different categories and the media had a chance to take photos with the King.
Ministry of Defence Principal Secretary, Prince Sicalo, presented two swords to His Majesty for the 55/55 Double Celebrations.
Among those who contributed was Maqhawe Khumalo from Pigg’s Peak, who gifted the King with a lighting object inscribed ‘Khula Mlisa 55/55’.
Prime Minister, Cleopas Sipho Dlamini, on behalf of government presented the King with gym equipment from Techno Gym, which has different accessories; a bike, treadmill, screen, Bluetooth and more, which he said would help the King relax from his busy schedule.
The PM said the 55/55 Double Celebrations were a milestone for the country and Their Majesties. He said many people from different countries will come to celebrate with the nation.
“Emaswati wish Their Majesties successful national events,” he said.
His Majesty said this was a beautiful gesture that shows that Emaswati were one.
The King noted that tetfulo were received since Wednesday when maidens were commissioned, adding that they also came out in great and impressive numbers.
He also appreciated those who have been supporting in prayer, ancestors and God and appreciated that no incidents were reported and expressed his hope that they returned safe.
His Majesty noted that events of such a great magnitude also saw many people attending, saying akulanjwa enkosini translated to what the people who contributed had done.
Through such humbling acts, the King said the people who would attend would eat and he would be able to provide from what had contributed.
“The maidens will be well taken care of as they proceed with their custom, with special thanks to those who made it possible. There are several events going on in the country. COVID-19 hindered us from gathering and celebrating national events, we thank God because we survived.
As you are all here, it depicts love that you have for Emakhosi,” His Majesty stated, adding that he even saw three-year olds who learnt how to approach and seek an audience with the King.
He said it was encouraging to see maidens showing love for their culture and customs as all communities were represented.
His Majesty also praised parents and community leaders who played a role towards the maidens attending in such a zealous manner. The King said the enthusiasm, zeal and energy shown by the regiment showed that they had been looking forward to this time of the year, where they cut the reed and showcase their dancing skills.
Her Majesty the Queen Mother also appreciated and praised Emaswati who contributed since Wednesday at Ngabezweni Royal Residence as the country hosts simultaneous national events.
Indlovukazi said the contributions did not go unnoticed and noted that when the League of African Churches President, Bishop Samson Hlatjwako prayed, he blessed all the events during his prayer; 55 years since His Majesty King Mswati III was born and 55 years of independence and the reed dance.
She promised and pledged that with Emakhosikati, they had prepared a huge present for the King as a birthday gift and towards independence celebrations so that people would feast.
“We also have something to carry with Emakhosikati that we will present to His Majesty and contribute towards the independence celebrations.
We could not be left out where Emaswati show their kind gesture and great hearts. Do not despise your gifts no matter how small, as long as it is from a cheerful and clean heart,” said the Queen Mother.
“May God bless you for your beautiful hearts such that you gave so much. May God greatly increase you wealth. Companies, individuals and more willingly contributed to the pool of gifts. God loves a cheerful giver, value your gifts as long as they come from a clean heart,” she said.
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